Emergency Care for Chest & Heart Problems in the Sacramento Region
Chest and heart problems involve the structures and organs in the chest. This includes the lungs, heart, and great vessels (the aorta and the pulmonary arteries and veins) of the heart and lungs.
Examples of chest and heart problems include:
- Angina (chest pain) attack
- Cardiac arrest
- Pericarditis
- Aortic aneurysm
- Pulmonary embolism
- Heart attack
- Arrhythmia (abnormal heartbeat)
- Pneumonia
- Heart failure
The professionals at Dignity Health offers expert emergency care for chest and heart problems in the Sacramento region at several locations. Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately for a diagnosis and the right treatment.
What Causes Chest & Heart Problems?
The most common cause of many heart problems is atherosclerosis — a buildup of fatty plaque inside your arteries.
Risk factors for developing heart problems include:
- Being overweight
- Smoking
- Leading a sedentary (inactive) lifestyle
- Eating high amounts of fat and cholesterol
- Having high blood pressure or diabetes
However, you can experience chest and heart problems even if you have no risk factors. Talk to your doctor at Dignity Health about how to maintain your heart health and reduce your risk.
Emergency Chest & Heart Problem Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of chest and heart problems depend on the specific condition and differ from person to person. Some heart and lung problems are life threatening and need treatment as soon as possible. Do not try to diagnose yourself.
Call 911 if you or someone you are with has the following symptoms of chest and heart problems:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Lightheadedness
- Back, neck, or jaw pain
- Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or rapid breathing
- Bluish lips or nails
- Coughing up blood or bloody sputum
- Excessive sweating or cold sweats
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness or fatigue
It’s important to know that symptoms of chest or heart problems can sometimes be vague. If you suspect something is wrong, always be cautious and find help right away. Our emergency team can provide the appropriate care. Many of our hospitals are recognized for our cardiac care.
Treating Chest & Heart Problems at Dignity Health
Our treatment and prevention strategies depend on the specific chest or heart problem. Emergency treatment may involve medications, a catheter-based procedure, or surgery. Once your condition is stable, treatment may focus on relieving symptoms, preventing complications, or correcting physical problems such as narrowed arteries. Our Cardiac Rehabilitation Program can help you recover from a chest or heart problem.
Trust your care to the exceptional emergency doctors and staff at Dignity Health in case of an chest or heart problem.
The emergency department at Dignity Health provides quality care for chest and heart problems in Sacramento, CA and the surrounding areas.